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Friday, 27 November 2009

Amidst the rollercoaster ride of the last few days, I wanted to make sure that this dazzling jewel of a song didn't get overshadowed and lost in all the commotion. I admit, I am completely biased and loved Down the Rabbit Hole even before I'd heard single note because the title very succinctly describes the journey since we boarded the Glambert Express. It's taken us to a world that we may previously have been unaware of and there's no turning back. We love this escapism. Plus, I used those exact words in my RoF review all those months ago as I was sure we hadn't seen nothin' yet.

Right from the start I love the sound of the continuous heavy throbbing electronic bassline. It's a skittish, funky and slightly distorted modern nod to disco. The vocals in the verses are fresh and lively with just a bit of backing, singing trippy drug-induced mashed-up thoughts about getting kicks. The chorus is more rock and brings us some frantic guitar riffing and drawly vocal stylings with interesting harmonies straight after (I can't quite recall who they remind me of). The bridge introduces some echoey early '90s rave synths, then it all gets rather psychedelic at the break with amazing studio RoF-type middle-eastern trills set to a trance beat. And if that isn't enough to freak you out, we have Adam channelling Vincent Price doing his scariest beyond-the-grave voice as the Caterpillar, over the manic instrumentals. This song is so in-your-face and over-the-top and all-over-the-place schizophrenic but hits the spot that I felt was missing on the album as the far-out crazy WTF? song. It's not for an agitated mood, nor is it very radio-friendly but it makes a super club and party track which I can imagine being used as the soundtrack to a darkly comical high-energy chase. Down the Rabbit Hole is such a thrilling adrenaline-pumped hallucinogenic acid trip whirlwind of a song and I absolutely love it.

Written by Adam Lambert, Evan Bogart and Greg Wells. Produced by Greg Wells
Here are what I can make of the lyrics, though I'm sure most of them are wrong:

Break out of the mechanical
Step right up to the freaky intangible
Hands uncuffed, take the leash on this animal
If it's gettin' hyphey, hit me with a night C

Going down the rabbit hole
Get away from all we know
Come on, follow, come on and follow me
Goin' down the rabbit hole
Even hoes and gigolos
Come on, follow, come on and follow me

Quick, slow, high or low
You're never gonna know for sure
See in stereo
Down the rabbit hole, ooh

Catnip and honey
Tea time and all over town (all over town, all over town)
Houses of candy
Build 'em up and then burn 'em down (burn 'em down, just burn 'em down)
It melts in your face and not in your armour-all
It starts in the vase and it ends in the crystal ball, yeah

Going down the rabbit hole
Get away from all we know
Come on, follow, come on and follow me
Goin' down the rabbit hole
Even hoes and gigolos
Come on, follow, come on and follow me

Thursday, 26 November 2009

The fall-out from the AMAs gave Adam plenty of publicity with the cancellation by GMA inadvertently giving him another huge boost and plenty of backing. That The Early Show immediately snapped him up just proves how much he is in demand. We were all curious as to how Adam would handle his first live TV appearance after the AMAs and I was eager for him to show the low-key side of him, reminiscent of the RoF-ToMT arc on AI. I wanted him to show everyone how well he could sing and that he wasn't a just gimmick meant to shock.

His morning look was great with light make-up and perfect imperfectly sculpted pompadour - very Elvis. He was still undoubtedly rockstar with his AMA red carpet jacket, some spray-on trousers with sparkle, clunky boots and fingerless leather gloves. There would no doubt be some questions about the awards show and Adam handled them with grace. Some of the questions were difficult and perhaps pushing for an apology or an admission of regret, but Adam seemed unflustered, speaking eloquently. He gave convincing and intelligent arguments, backing them up with valid examples and opened up a debate about sexist double-standards. He spoke with conviction and made me proud that he refused to back down.

Whataya Want From Me? was the ideal choice of song after all the controversy. The way it related to the situation gave it that extra poignancy. There was a slightly distracting plucky sound throughout the song but the arrangement stuck close to that of the album. Adam was pitch perfect in his heartfelt plea for patience and understanding. This was perfect answer and antidote to the criticism over his AMA performance. Bringing Leila on was a transparent attempt to turn him into sweet momma's boy Adam suitable for kids and daytime TV, but by doing that, it was also giving the finger to ABC for deeming him unsuitable for a morning show. And I loved the comment about the how shoulderpads help him bear the weight of the pressure.

Music Again had a completely different energy that was lively and fun. He did forget the lyrics by singing the betterer line twice and missed the first jump into falsetto but nailed everything else. I loved the interaction with Monte and the timbre of his vocals was beautiful. His interaction with the fans after leaving the studio only further endeared him.

Whataya Want From Me? on Letterman was filmed the day after the AMAs and Adam toned himself down to suit the occasion, looking smart in a satin jacket and tight sliver trousers. This wasn't as pitch perfect as the Early Show performance as some places could have done with a little fine tuning. The vibe was different though, being impassioned and angrier-sounding, reminding me much of his BoW performance. You could see that he meant every word of that song, which injected that extra intensity.

I think after these peformances, there may be people who will be revising their opinions on Adam after the AMA debacle, thinking they over-reacted. He's certainly proven that he can sing well live, he's shown himself to be articulate and charming under fire and demonstrated that he can tone it down to suit whatever platform he's on. As far as I'm concerned, Adam is the big winner out of this because he's rightly pointed out and made us question our hypocrisies while the networks have only further proven his point. He's expertly managed to deflect the bulk of the fire and remained consistently unapologetic for his actions. This was a measured 'Fuck You!' response to his critics delivered with a sweet and confident smile, earning even more respect from me. Well done Adam!

Wednesday, 25 November 2009

Oh Adam, I'm never going to catch up on sleep at this rate! Here's the For Your Entertainment music video:

The video starts off with a calm and mundane evening street scene before panning underground. It's going from who we are on the surface to our deep dark decadent desires and this is where we explore them, guided by Adam. The underground scenes start off with a Matrixy vibe where he leads the way down a dark alley in leather trenchcoat and dark glasses. We follow him through a curtain into a seedy dimly lit club that's been squatted. It's a derelict but once grand opulent ballroom decorated with an ornate stuccoed ceiling and crystal chandeliers.

He's the one wearing a tie and clutching a blinging cane so there's no doubt as to who's in charge of the power dynamic and dominating proceedings. There are a lot of blurred, out of focus and warped shots, perhaps suggesting an altered state of consciousness from intoxication. Racy stiletto heels worn on lacy legs spread-eagled and pointing skyward, lots of leather, and plenty of pleasured hands roughly seizing what they can, hint at more than a bit of debauchery.

We then get some close-ups of Adam on what looks to be his throne under a warmer brighter light. These shots during the video feel a little awkward for me because it's a break in the fierceness of the atmosphere. His fluid eyebrows and expressions over-act a little, affecting the believability. As if Adam's masculinity weren't enough, we get him playing with the phallic symbolism of the snake. The chorus is the first time we get to see Adam's other outfit, which is fabulous. He has a leather sash adorned with vicious-looking shiny shoulder spikes and chains. The look is completed with patent leather cubit-length gloves, a leather corset and jewellery that gives the look of a metallic clergy collar, like he would happily give these sinful pleasures his complete absoution. We get into a little more of an S&M vibe when Adam appears to grab some dancers by the throat then pull and whip them with an invisible leash.

He then beckons us to follow him into what resembles a secret garden under the cover of thick foliage where all the forbidden pleasures are satiated. It's more secretive and seems to be a bit of a hedonistic free-for-all make-out with untold numbers of hands indiscriminately wandering and feeling. We can only assume there's a bit of an orgy going on off-camera. There's another nod to light bondage with the appearance of a lacy blindfold. The video continues with sped-up shots of dancers and a couple of references to the garden of Eden with the snake and apple where we've given in to temptation and said 'To hell!' with our morals. The video regularly cuts to one dancer in sparkly sequins lit with red who doesn't quite fit in with the whole bondage theme and to me, she the safe object of desire for those who have yet to finish chapter one of 'S&M For Beginners'. The video finishes with Adam and his band performing in the club, shot from the mosh pit of the frenzied crowd with arms in the air, complete with shaking floor. With a lick of the lips and one last look that sends us an open invitation to return, the camera pans back to the normality of street-level goings on and it's the end of our brief escapist foray, enriched with the knowledge of what lies beneath.

Sometimes I wish I hadn't spoiled myself so I could enjoy a surprise but it is in keeping with what I had imagined when I first heard FYE:

"I'm picturing Adam looking particularly fierce. He'd be dressed up in a mind-blowing costume and would work the part of a dominator getting down and dirty with risqué moves against other amazingly costumed and beautiful folk on the dance-floor. There'd be lots of glitter and glistening sweat on luminous skin with a feeling of danger and debauchery amongst the ecstasy."

The video didn't go as far sexually as the AMA performance but it's still hot and sexy with much less aggression and more play. There wasn't as much dancing or interaction with the dancers from Adam as I'd expected but the imagery and visuals leave a strong impression of brand Adam Lambert, the entertainer. A job well done.

Monday, 23 November 2009

After what seemed like an incredibly long wait, Adam showed up with pimp-spot timing on the red carpet. The look was very understated in terms of sparkly embellishments and was one of the simplest I think I've seen from him. The look consisted of a skinny black tie and button-down shirt with pointy collars, underneath an elongated jacket with thin slivers for lapels. The bling was provided by patent leather boots and a knuckle-duster of garish chunky rings. His hair was styled in a high pompadour which I find smarter and more appropriate for the red carpet than his spikes. I thought he might have arrived in something more outrageous but because he didn't, it made me all the more curious about what he would bring to the performance. He looked fabulous nonetheless and was his usual charming self.

The expectations for this were virtually insurmountable as the hype grew with each ad break thanks to the AMA voice-over which I really didn't appreciate. The pressure must have been enormous. As the evening of bad sound and vocals progressed, my first doubts started to creep in but my confidence in Adam's performance skills swept them away until the performance. That Adam wasn't at his best made the viewing a little uncomfortable and less-than glowing performances are always the most difficult to write about but here you go.

Seeing Adam's name in lights was incredible and gave me a lump in my throat. Everything was dark apart from that and a dim spotlight locked onto the lone but powerful figure at the centre of the stage. The bright sparkly keys gave off a slightly oriental melody as Adam began to sing. It took a very dramatic turn, sounding like the score for the villain's entrance in a silent movie as Adam surveyed and sneered at his subjects. We got a close-up of his outfit, which possibly ranks as my favourite. I think it hit the spot that the Sebree look homed in on but missed. I loved the camp glittery silver three-piece suit and the gold tie that were complemented by the hardness of his glove and shoulder spikes. It was a grand opening full of theatrics and strong vocals and he commanded every one of us - I absolutely loved it.

With such a strong start, I had high hopes for the rest of the performance. But soon after the band kicked in, the thin and shaky vocals upset my engagement of the performance and I just couldn't get back into it. The rest went by in a bit of a blur. It was frustrating because the stream wasn't particularly good, there were silent spots, there was a lot of glare and the camerawork was a bit of a failure. The things I remember were swelling with pride, a huge mental 'Yes!' and cackling with glee at his sexual predator moves, wincing when I heard the backing singers, wondering if rolling on the floor was part of the plan, and thinking 'WTF?' when I thought I saw him snogging Lisa, the band's keyboardist.

It's only on subsequent viewings was I able to take it in properly. FYE isn't a song that sells Adam's vocals well with the verses in a low range that sits outside his sweet spot. I think it needs big notes to impress as a live performance otherwise it lacks power. There may have been some nerves but as he pulled the dancer across the floor, he wasn't really able to sustain the quality of the notes and think he would have perhaps done better in a higher key at the expense of a growly tone. He gyrated and prowled around the stage and I loved the visual of his whipping the dancer gimps on leashes, as if there were any doubt as to which bitch was in charge. I find myself bemused by the highly exaggerated claims of simulating fellatio and annoyed that not only was it muted, but the cameras were made to pan out to the audience. Do these people not understand what a blow-job is? That was nothing more than Adam rubbing a willing face into his horny crotch, that lucky bastard!

I still wince when I hear the backing singers kick in with the voices both dissonant and out of time I can't imagine how distracting it must have been for Adam. There was a crotch-grab before he tripped and did his best stuntman roll. It was only after multiple slow-mo replays that I've decided it wasn't intentional but a great cover-up. He fell a little hard on his knee but he expertly picked up the cane and rolled with it. It makes me wonder how he was supposed to pick it up and whether there was some sort of alternative roll involved. He seemed a little thrown by it and for some reason skipped the lyric 'Take the pleasure' but did recover. The interaction with the dancers after Adam walked through the mirrored door was the best part of the choreographed routine and was one of the only parts where the camera did it justice. He appeared to have some trouble finding the right pitch during the following high note which started quite flat but he managed to tune it back up towards the end. I intially had no idea what Adam was doing with the dancer's crotch at the chair until a HD replay, but it wasn't as lewd as it might have appeared and would have benefitted from a closer shot. He attacked the next high note and nailed it with a look of wild ferocity. The feel of the performance got aggressive, especially when he devoured Tommy with that violently passionate kiss. Had the camera been up closer, it might have taken the edge off the seriousness as Adam lit his eyes and raised his eyebrows singing 'Can you handle what I'm about to do?' before going in for the kill. It felt like Adam had gotten carried away in the heat of the moment and it was an expression of his frustration that the performance wasn't going well. The rest of it was much better as he let out more of his trademark big notes, especially the end note that was filled with plenty of emotion and grit. When I saw Adam's face at the end and he seemed out of breath, my heart sank and I felt sad and disappointed for him as he obviously knew the performance wasn't up to his usual standard.

As much as I try to convince myself otherwise, I found the performance disappointing because it wasn't well executed and I couldn't really connect with it. The sound was bad, the lighting glare and camera work made it much more of an effort to watch, detracting from the performance, and Adam was vocally below-par. It felt as though it was targeted at the theatre audience rather than the television one because the screen just seemed too busy. I wanted more focus on him and think the lighting should have enabled that. I did get the feeling that Adam was being destructive in mauling Tommy as my instinct was that it might cause awkwardness within the band.

I can see what he was trying to achieve with that performance though, which was unmistakably Adam. I liked the way the dancers moved in their kooky costumes even though due to having seen them in the spoilers I paid them little attention. I liked the colours of the performance with the set and costumes all reminding me of Duran Duran's 'Wild Boys' video. I liked the raunchy S&M bondage theme and the provocative character Adam assumed, although the anger/aggression could have been toned down a notch and the fun cranked up a few. I'm proud and love that Adam didn't shy away from taking such a risk and it was a ballsy, subversive 'Fuck you!' to generic bubblegum pop and to anyone who thinks he's de-gaying to pander to the audience. I do think giving the finger wasn't necessary though, and it should have remained implied. I so wanted that statement to have been made without giving the critics any ammo but the standard of the vocals lessened the impact. In that respect I can't place it with RoF, which was technically flawless. Although the kinky sexual nature might have been too shocking and gratuitous for many, I just think it was a bit of harmless groping, no more. It's similar to what he did for the Zodiac Show, which had plenty of grinding and crotch-grabbing and sexually suggestive moves. I don't see it as a cheap attempt to get headlines because he's staying true to himself bringing underground performance art to the masses and I hope he succeeds. I did feel uncomfortable watching the FYE because it didn't go smoothly and didn't do justice to Adam's mind-blowing talent. I was worried he might have ended up kamikaze-ing it after feeling it slip away a little and was sad for him. After watching the post-performanceinterviews though, it seemed fairly upbeat, which left me feeling reassured and more positive.

Being invested fans, we've been building up our expectations over a period of months and this performance got blown into a massive event. Perhaps we rested all our hopes and attached too much importance onto this debut performance. Yes this was a stumble and he may have alienated many, but I think the re-branding was successful and he couldn't distance himself any further from cookie-cutter Idol. He's shown that he can hold his own against established stars despite being sub-par. The result is it's grabbed plenty of headlines and gotten people talking. As their curiosity has been stoked, there will be many more who'll be wondering what he does next. Some of them will have opened Pandora's box by Googling him and seeing other amazing performances. Some may even have stepped off the precipice and been swallowed into this obsession. Adam is a brilliant rainbow and it's his spectrum of colours that's one of his greatest strengths. It's rare for anyone to like every colour so if you didn't like his vision for this performance, there will be many more to come that'll show off his other colours.

Apologies for the delay, it's been a tough day with the end of a relationship.

Sunday, 22 November 2009

This is what we've been eagerly anticipating since May when Adam would once again explode onto our screens. I almost heard the collective intake of breath as we realised that he has the pimp spot at the AMAs. The excitement is palpable and I am already holding my breath amidst my dusted-off but familiar feelings of anticipation.

How's he going to change up the song? What's he going to be wearing? How's he going to style his hair? What kind of dance moves does he have planned? What are going to be the colours of the performance? What's going to be the feel of the performance? What kind of vocal improvisations are we going to hear? How's the arrangement going to be different to that of the single? What's the band going to be like? Will the band give it more of a rock rather than electronic sound and will they be doing much improvisation? Is he going to give us another provocative pivotal TV moment that's going to get everyone talking? One that's going to leave pearl dust all over the floors of conservative America? One that's going to cause a major earthquake as the whole of the US is collectively spasming in Adamgasm? Will they appreciate the message he's trying to put across? Will they be shocked in a good way or will they consider it gratuitous? Will it cause outrage? Will he push it a little too far? I can't freakin' wait! Get those defibrillators at the ready!

Many of these questions I found myself asking before the AI final but now I'm asking them again with the added bonus of feeling like Adam's already won. That he has the pimp spot is a major coup and speaks volumes about the confidence the show's producers have in him giving us a show-stopping performance. It's the perfect platform on which to promote his music and reach out to music fans who were too cool for AI. It's a chance to widen his fanbase but it's also possible he might alienate some.

The performance is supposed to be an extension of the music video, which contains plenty of scatily clad dancers dressed like they just walked off the set of Mad Max, or a Camden of warmer climes, writhing around in decadence in dark and opulent surroundings. From what I can tell of the rehearsal footage, it's going to be one sexy sizzling performance with pyrotechnics and dancers each doing something different. I think there's a light bondage theme in the costumes, with rumours of people on leashes and Adam wearing nipple tassels. I expect he'll be the dominator spanking up a storm with a cane or a whip, making us crawl on all fours screaming in agony for more. On the video, I can hear some changes that have been made to the song, including a new glory note and there are rumours of it starting a cappella. I've always preferred his live performances to his studio recordings so I expect the energy will be explosive. I have no doubt the performance is going to be deliciously risqué and hope it's well received. I'm looking forward to being blown away, screw sleep!

This performance signals the birth of post-AI Adam. This is where he's going to be re-branded and I realise that THIS is his fucking coronation! It's back to the same Nokia stage but not as the winner from a load of wannabes on some reality karaoke show dialling it down and singing a crap song, but as a fucking SUPERSTAR with his own awesome ideas, singing how he wants to sing his own awesome shit, crowning off a night of established stars. And it's a coronation with style. Fuck confetti, give me fire and bondage!!!

Thursday, 19 November 2009

Much has been said of the controversial letter by Aaron Hicklin, Editor in Chief of Out, addressed to Adam Lambert. His veiled criticisms of Adam through his management, accusing them of toning down his gayness has annoyed many. Whilst it won't get me spouting vitriol, I don't think the letter has done Out any favours. It was an irritation that this came on the day of the album's streaming and overshadowed it a little.

I think Hicklin did have a valid point to make, but it lost support because he stuck the knives in before rolling it around in bullshit. After reading the interviewer's response, the heart of all the controversy seems to have been triggered by Adam's publicist not wanting the interview to sound 'too gay' and wanting to stay away from politics. There was no clarification of what exactly 'too gay' meant and we don't have the full context. Had Adam evaded talk about being gay in the interview, then Hicklin would have had a case. As it was, Adam gave a fascinating, enlightening and frank interview, talking openly about matters relating to his homosexuality. It's interesting, and perhaps deceptive, that the article in print is an edited version of the oneonline which I think has been spun to lend support to Hicklin's letter. From the results of the online interview though, there's scant justification for launching into a tirade about how Adam's management has been de-gaying his image. From all the evidence of his work so far, whether it's his song lyrics, his appearance or his album cover, this rant just makes Hicklin appear ill-informed. I can see why Hicklin took exception to the publicist wanting Out to tone down the gayness, but considering the results, it's a complete a non-issue. Laying into him for the Details article for not mentioning gay fans just seems petty and smacks of sour grapes. I mean, seriously, would only a public display of sodomy be enough for him? There are a multitude of reasons why Adam's management may have chosen to turn down the cover but Hicklin went for headline-grabbing homophobia. Coat-tails anyone?

While I think Hicklin has done his cause no favours through his bitchiness and inability to demonstrate his backing of an emerging gay artist, Adam on the other hand, I think has done plenty. He's played a part in challenging a number of gay stereotypes and has done much more for awareness — by living openly and unapologetically and in doing so, encouraging others to not be afraid — than by getting on any soap-box. The problem Adam faces is that, like it or not, and despite stating that he doesn't want to become the poster-boy for gay rights, he won't be able to completely escape the politics and the burden of responsibility thrust upon him. That could have been one of the many reasons for turning down an Out cover. The pressure of being put on a pedestal to represent the gay community must be immense and is not something a heterosexual counterpart is required to bear.

We should respect that Adam doesn't want to be a political figure and just wants to make music now. It's out of order to expect him to follow paths that we dictate or to feel disappointed when he doesn't. Entitlement is not sexy. It may be frustrating for those who want Adam to champion their causes because the set of qualities that create such buzz around him would put him in good stead for being a successful torch-bearer. He makes a great role-model and I can see why some would want him to front their campaigns. Looking at the curt reponse he tweeted, it was perfect: mildly sympathetic, assertive, sarcastic and with the right amount of venom for an appropriate bitchslap. Not only does he handle himself expertly in the media, but he comes across as thoughtful, articulate, intelligent, honest, bold, proud of his sexuality and a great orator. He possesses the exceptional ability to inspire, and right now he's choosing to do that through his music.

Here are the full set of lyrics with help from the scans of the CD booklet. Let me know you think of the album.

1. MUSIC AGAIN
Writer: Justin Hawkins Producer: Rob Cavallo

The tension is made palpable by the bouncing ascending introduction, which is like a countdown to blast-off. This is one of the songs I was most excited by from the previews. Although it's not quite as crazy throughout as I'd imagined, it doesn't disappoint. I love the OTT falsetto of 'eyes baby eyes' and the slightly punky delivery of the verses. The lyrics are fun and unabashedly shallow but they hit the nail on the head for many of us who have been inspired by Adam to take an interest in pop music again. It's vocal rollercoaster with a retro rock feel and harmonies reminiscent of Queen. It's a great party track to sing along to in your most ridiculous voice and to let your outrageous alter ego out to. Get ready to leap off the nearest piece of furniture towards Planet Fierce with your air guitars firmly in hand! Adam proudly flies his freak flag high in this camp glam rock extravaganza of an album opener which I shouldn't like, but despite my musical snobbery, I love.

“I told the producer, 'I want it to feel like it's a time capsule to the Seventies, and we're going to blast off into space.' It's a rock song at the core, but it has all this sonic ear candy all over it.” - RS 26/11/09

“It has a classic rock riff to it that I thought was so sexy. Another band that was a major reference was Queen. You hear that influence in a couple different songs, and the chorus of that song, I wanted the harmonies to sound like Queen, I wanted it to be really full. Also, bands like Sweet used to do that with their vocals, glam bands. I just wanted to show people I had a sense of humor with this shit. It's fun, it's supposed to be kind of campy.” - RS 11/11/09

I want your body, mind, soul, et cetera
And one day you'll see, you should give it to me
And I don't want anyone instead of ya
Oh babe I'm goin' crazy, come on and give it to me
And I ain't never met nobody betterer
You're someone else's baby

I'm so sick of living for other people
Took meeting you to realise
I don't wanna lose ya, I wanna keep ya

Put your little hand in mine and
Look into my eyes, baby eyes
Oh, you made me wanna listen to music again
Yeah, you make me wanna listen to music again

There had been many moons before I met ya
And I don't know when I last put paper to pen
But now you're giving me back my raison d'être
And I'm inspired again

And I know that in some ways we're kinda evil
I've got my roots and you've got ties
But my heart's no stranger to upheaval

Put your little hand in mine and
Look into my eyes, baby eyes
Oh, you made me wanna listen to music again
Yeah, you make me wanna listen to music again

Ahhh, music again
Look in to my eyes, baby eyes
Make me wanna listen to music again
Oh yeah oh yeah whoa yeah wooh oh hey!

I'm so sick of living for other people
Took meeting you to realise
I don't wanna lose ya, I wanna keep ya

Put your little hand in mine and
Look into my eyes, baby eyes, whoa
Oh, you made me wanna listen to music again, whoa
Yeah, you make me wanna listen to music again, whoa
Oh, you made me wanna listen to music again, whoa
Yeah, you make me wanna listen to music again

“I just thought that the song was cool, it was sexy, it kinda summed up everything I'm about, it's for your entertainment, that's why I'm here. I'm here to entertain people and I thought it was a great first look for me, and I wanted to get something out in the clubs that would get people dancing, and kind of go a route that people wouldn't expect from me. You know, coming off of American Idol, you don't really hear a lot of them coming out with dance-pop music, and I really, really wanted that in there. What's cool about it is that the rhythm of it is a shuffle, it's glam rock. It was made popular by people like T-Rex and Sweet and sonically it doesn't sound exactly like it, but it moves that way. Goong-goo-ga-ka goong-goo-ga-ka goong-goo-ga...” - ET 19/11/09

“As for the single 'For Your Entertainment', we wanted to release something that was dance club ready. I wanted to get people dancing, drinking to it and shaking and feeling kind of sexy.” - Inquirer 07/11/09

So hot, out the box, can we pick up the pace?
Turn it up, heat it up, I need to be entertained
Push the limit, are you with it? Baby don't be afraid
I'mma hurt you real good baby

Let's go, it's my show, baby do what I say
Don't trip off the glitz that I'm gonna display
I told ya I'mma hold ya down until you're amazed
Give it to ya 'til you're screaming my name

No escapin' when I start
Once I'm in I own your heart
There's no way you'll ring the alarm
So hold on until it's over

Oh! Do you know what you got into?
Can you handle what I'm 'bout to do?
'Cause it's about to get rough for you
I'm here for your entertainment

Oh! I betcha thought that I was soft and sweet
You thought an angel swept ya off your feet
Well I'm about to turn up the heat
I'm here for your entertainment

It's alright, you'll be fine, baby I'm in control
Take the pain, take the pleasure, I'm the master of both
Close your eyes, not your mind, let me into your soul
I'mma work it 'til you're totally blown

No escapin' when I start
Once I'm in I own your heart
There's no way you'll ring the alarm
So hold on until it's over

Oh! Do you know what you got into?
Can you handle what I'm 'bout to do?
'Cause it's about to get rough for you
I'm here for your entertainment

Oh! I betcha thought that I was soft and sweet
You thought an angel swept you off your feet
Well I'm about to turn up the heat
I'm here for your entertainment

Oh-oh, oh-oh, oh-oh
I'm here for your entertainment

Whoa-oh! Do you like what you see?
Whoa-oh! Let me entertain you 'til you scream!

Oh! Do you know what you got into?
Can you handle what I'm 'bout to do?
'Cause it's about to get rough for you
I'm here for your entertainment

Oh! I betcha thought that I was soft and sweet (betcha thought)
Your fallen angel swept you off your feet
Well I'm about to turn up the heat
I'm here for your entertainment

This wasn't one of my favourites from the snippets, but it's very inoffensive, radio friendly and has set up camp in my head. Those first guitar chords signal a change in pace that's lower key than the preceding songs. Throughout the song, I can hear a bit of a whooshing sound which I'm not sure is intentional and may be due to the quality of the stream. I like the beat and the slightly scrapey timbre of Adam's voice. The lyrics feel very personal, relating to the journey he's embarked on since Idol and because of that, it has added poignancy. It's not as exciting or as distinctive as some of the other songs but the I think the synth break makes sure it's not just bland soft-rock. I love the long 'ahhh' at the bridge and when he lets loose with his vocal improvisations towards the end of the song.

“It works on a relationship level, but I also relate to the sense of talking to the public. Like, 'This whole thing's a little freaked out, but please have faith in me, because I won't disappoint you'” - EW 23/10/09

Hey, slow it down
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
Yeah, I'm afraid
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
There might have been a time
When I would give myself away
Oh once upon a time
I didn't give a damn
But now, here we are
So whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?

Just don't give up, I'm working it out
Please don't give in, I won't let you down
It messed me up, need a second to breathe
Just keep comin' around, hey
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?

There, it's plain to see
That baby you're beautiful
And there's nothing wrong with you
It's me, I'm a freak
But thanks for loving me,
'Cause you're doing it perfectly
And there might have been a time
When I would have let you slip away
I wouldn't even try
But I think you could save my life

Just don't give up, I'm working it out
Please don't give in, I won't let you down
It messed me up, need a second to breathe
Just keep comin' around, hey
Whataya want from me? Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me? Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?

Just don't give up on me, ah
I won't let you down
No, I won't let ya down

So just don't give up, I'm working it out
Please don't give in, I won't let you down
It messed me up, need a second to breathe
Just keep coming around, hey
Whataya want from me?

Just don't give up, I'm working it out
Please don't give in, I won't let you down
It messed me up, need a second to breathe
Just keep comin' around, hey
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?

This has a thumping beat with a great bassline reminiscent of Soft Cell's 'Tainted Love' and is perfectly composed to encapsulate the feeling of strutting. Some of the vocals are a little manipulated at the beginning but I like the sound nonetheless, which reminds me of the effect used in Air's 'Sexy Boy'. I love the way he draws out the last word in each line of each verse to make it that bit sexier. The glory note gives me goosebumps and the way it soars reminds me of the glory note from his studio version of 'Feeling Good'. There are many layers of vocal which somewhat disguises his voice, but overall, I'm a huge fan of the production including the rocking guitar riffs and solos. This is the first song Adam had a hand in writing and the attitude and punch of the lyrics are superb.

“...is about owning your own beauty, walking your own walk. When you learn to let it all hang out, that's how you find love.” - USA Today 18/11/09

“Even 'Strut', it's not incredibly hooky, but it's a self-empowerment thing. Strut it out, work your shit, and feel good about yourself and let it all hang out, sooner or later you're going to find love and be happy in your life. So it's fun and it's lighthearted, but it definitely has some weight to it, as far as what it's trying to say.” - RS 11/11/09

I wanna start a revolution
A type of personal solution
We all have got our own pollution
It's all about the execution

You got something to say, your hands are tied
Open your mouth, open it wide
Let the freedom begin
Get on the floor, just let it drop
Don't it feel good, don't feel hot?
Feel the fire within

I wanna see ya strut strut strut
C'mon walk for me strut strut strut
How you wanna be
Everybody's looking for some love but they don't know
How to let it all hang out and that's why they're solo solo solo
Don't wanna be so low solo solo
Don't wanna be so low

We're a complicated nation
And now we're in a situation
Let's take a make-believe vacation
And get yourself some validation

You got something to say, your hands are tied
Open your mouth, open it wide
Let the freedom begin
Get on the floor, just let it drop
Don't it feel good, don't feel hot?
Feel the fire within

I wanna see ya strut strut strut
C'mon walk for me strut strut strut
How you wanna be
Everybody's looking for some love but they don't know
How to let it all hang out and that's why they're solo solo solo
Don't wanna be so low solo solo
Don't wanna be so low

I'll be your mirror
Darlin' let your hair down
Show me what you're workin' with
And let me see ya strut strut strut strut strut
How you wanna be
Everybody's looking for some love but they don't know
How to let it all hang out and that's why they're solo solo solo
Don't wanna be so low solo solo
Don't wanna be solo

Strut for me and show me what you're workin' with
Strut for me and show me what you're workin' with

The instrumentals of this song start off very aggressively, from the slicing of the strings to the slamming of keys. The melodies sound Middle-Eastern and evoke images of an epic action-packed voyage through a desert. This diminishes in time for the start of the vocals which are beautifully tender. I just want to drink it all up. It turns to a tortured wail reminiscent of Radiohead's Thom Yorke. The song builds into a spectacularly dramatic huge production with full orchestra that could easily be a Bond theme. Adam carries off this heartbreaking lament with an awe-inspiring vocal performance that's both dynamic and expressive. This song is about the loneliness of one-night stands and he captures the pain of yearning for that elusive love and ending up feeling sad and empty through mechanical affection. I find the ending of the song quite dark, like he's given up caring and is trying to justify continuing the habit despite knowing how he feels afterwards.

“There's three songs that are really emotional, a little bit slower, softer. One of them is a song that Muse wrote, 'Soaked.' That opens up with a real soft vocal, it's very tender, the lyrics are very vulnerable, then it goes into a soaring ballad-type feel. That was another example — we got the song from Muse, and I was shitting myself, I couldn't believe it, I thought, 'This is incredible, I can't believe they're giving me a song.' I'm a huge fan, and it, too, like the rest of the three that I'm talking about, have this real retro feel to it, melodically and even in the style of the production, very Seventies, at times very Sixties, almost like a Shirley Bassey song mixed with a Queen record.” - RS 11/11/09

Soaked to the bone
And sink like a stone
Walk on alone
It's not the first time
It's not the worst crime
Your soul will be OK

And you've had enough
Searching for love
And you miss the touch
Of someone new

Burned by your dreams
It's never how it seems
Cold crushed esteem
Take shelter
And hide forever
Your soul will be OK

And you've had enough
Searching for love
And you miss the touch
Of someone new

And you've had enough
Searching for love
And you miss the touch
Of someone new

Soaked to the bone
Sink like a stone
I will take you home
It's not the first time
It's not the worst crime
Our souls will be OK

This is an electro-infused rock anthem with a great melody sounding like the result of a gangbang between Queen's 'We Will Rock You', LT United's joke Eurovision entry 'We Are The Winners' and even Da Luniz's 'http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWBj_fNap28' amongst others. I love the persistent and playful bleeps that accompany the beat throughout the song. The lyrics perfectly capture the spirit of Adam and are suitably cheeky. The verses are more electro whereas the chorus is very much rock and the bridge is classic rock aided by the heavy guitar riffs. I'm not that keen on the sound of the chorus where Adam's voice is a little drowned out for my liking, but I am a fan of the enunciation and aggressive tone during the verses. The rock edge during the bridge is awesome and the way the bleeps bring it back down is incredibly fun. I'm even a fan of the manipulated voice at the end, which sounds very seductive.

“'Sure Fire Winners' is pretty vocally acrobatic. It's crazy — but they all kind of go crazy...
... (sounding like a homage to 'We are the Champions') wasn’t intentional, and I didn’t write that song. But yeah, that’s totally the vibe. I don’t know if the writers did that on purpose or not. But it is like a 'we rock' kind of anthem.” - WSJ 12/11/09

We are the sure fire winners winners winners winners

We're coming up like killing machines
Our big gun's gonna shatter your scene
It's pandemonium on the floor
'Cause everybody wants a little more
They wanna ride on our rocket ship
Right around the moon for a velvet kiss
'Cause all the girls and the boys wanna know
How far this bad wild child's gonna go

We are the sure fire winners
Uh-oh yeah big time hitters
We are the sure fire winners
Uh-oh yeah big time hitters
Bringing the heat and the word is out
Giving you something to shout about
We are, yeah, we are, we are the sure fire winners
Sure fire winners, sure fire winners, sure fire winners

Flip the switch and the missile will fire
I'm a heat seeker when I'm full of desire
You're all drawn to the heat of the flame
'Cause you wanna be a star in our hall of fame
I was born with glitter on my face
My baby clothes were made of leather and lace
And all the girls in the club wanna know
Where did all their pretty boys go?

We are the sure fire winners
Uh-oh yeah big time hitters
We are the sure fire winners
Uh-oh yeah big time hitters
Bringing the heat and the word is out
Giving you something to shout about
We are, yeah, we are, we are the sure fire winners
Winners winners

Ooh yeah, take a walk on the wild with me
Gonna take you to the top to the brink of what you believe
Never gonna stop 'til we reach the top
Never gonna stop 'til we reach the top
You'd better get out of the game it's never gonna be the same
Move over 'cause a new boy's callin' your name

We are the sure fire winners
Uh-oh yeah big time hitters
We are the sure fire winners
Uh-oh yeah big time hitters
Bringing the heat and the word is out
Giving you something to shout about
We are, yeah, we are, we are the sure fire winners

Ooh yeah yeah-oh yeah yeah yeah

We are the sure fire winners
Uh-oh yeah big time hitters
We are the sure fire winners
Uh-oh yeah big time hitters
Bringing the heat and the word is out
Giving you something to shout about
Yeah we are, yeah, we are, we are the sure fire winners

Gonna take you to the top to the brink of what you believe
Gonna take you to the top to the brink of what you believe
Gonna take you to the top to the brink of what you believe

The intro has the vibe of the start of Zero 7's 'Destiny' and the song is like swimming in an enchanted underwater world. The honeyed vocals gently envelop you. I'm not so keen on the dated feel of the instrumentals during the chorus. It feels much brighter than the verses, which I prefer the sound of, although it does help to further convey the meaning of the song. It seems to take a darkly humorous slant on describing a dysfunctional and turbulent yo-yo-ing love-hate relationship where you're in love, but familiarity has bred so much contempt that you're being driven mad and it's become a headfuck. I think this is well illustrated during the chaotic bridge with what I think sounds like helicopter blades. It's almost schizophrenic, with confused and conflicting voices pulling you in many different directions. The strange instrumentals after the bridge sound clumsy and gives it that comical feel, like it's mocking the ridiculousness of the situation. The end is highly evocative, leaving a strong visual impression of an inevitable break-up.

“It's a bit dark, with all the vocals in falsetto. It feels like you're floating in space.” - EW 23/10/09

“Artistically, I think the Linda Perry song was a departure for me because it was a little out of my obvious comfort zone — vocally, it sits in this falsetto space, and lyrically, if you really listen to it, it’s complicated. The lyrics contradict themselves, which was done on purpose — Linda and I really talked about it. There are two different interpretations: one is that it’s about two members of a relationship, and what’s going on in their heads when they’re with each other. One partner is loving every moment and in bliss, while the other person is feeling empty and not satistfied. The other way to look at it is that it’s about one person, going back and forth about a relationship in their head. Like one day, we feel like we love this person to death, the next, what the hell. It’s emotionally complicated, which makes it special.” - WSJ 12/11/09

If I say I'm sorry
It's just me telling a lie
When you're in my arms
I feel emptier inside
I never felt so satisfied

Everything falls into place
But I think I need a little more time
And yeah, I know my life has changed
But honestly I don't know if we'll survive

A loaded smile
An empty glass
And one last dance

Walking hand in hand
You are all I ever want
And when you're not around dear
Don't even notice that you're gone
We are barely hanging on

Everything falls into place
But I think I need a little more time
And yeah I know my life has changed
But honestly I don't know if we'll survive

Makes me want you baby
Can't you feel it, can't you feel it, can't you feel it?
I do still want to baby
It's a certain kind of crazy
Makes me want you baby
Can't you feel it, can't you feel it, can't you feel it?
I do still want to baby
It's a certain kind of crazy

Everything falls into place
But I think I need a little more time
And yeah I know my life has changed
But honestly I don't know if we'll survive

I don't usually like songs with this kind of simple rhythm but I'm powerless to resist the throbbing stomping bassline. Adam's tone in the verses is beautiful with the perfect amount of coarseness and the 'You y-y-y-y do' part is kitsch and annoyingly catchy. The lyrics are brilliantly autobiographical and work as great tongue-in-cheek commentary. For me this is a song of slightly disjointed parts where I love the electro-rock verses and the '80s guitar rock of the bridge but I'm not so keen on the late '90s Ibiza chorus with its sliding scales and less distinctive vocals. Perhaps the '90s just isn't quite far enough in the past for me to feel nostalgic enough to get out my rose-tinted specs yet. Overall, I like this song much more than my initial first impression and much much more than I should.

So I got my boots on, got the right amount of leather
And I'm doing me up with a black colour liner
And I'm working my strut, but I know it don't matter
All we need in this world is some love
There's a thin line 'tween the dark side and the light side, baby tonight
It's a struggle gotta rumble tryin' to find it

But if I had you, that would be the only thing I'd ever need
Yeah if I had you, then money, fame and fortune never could compete
If I had you, life would be a party it'd be ecstasy
Yeah if I had you
You y-y-y-y do y-y-y-y-y do y-y-y-y-y do
If I had you

From New York to L.A. getting high rock 'n' rolling
Get a room trash it up 'til it's ten in the morning
Girls in stripper heels, boys rolling in Maseratis
What they need in this world is some love
There's a thin line between a wild time and a flatline, baby tonight
It's a struggle, gotta rumble tryin' to find it

But if I had you, that would be the only thing I'd ever need
Yeah if I had you, then money fame and fortune never could compete
If I had you, life would be a party it'd be ecstasy
Yeah if I had you
You y-y-y-y do y-y-y-y-y do y-y-y-y-y do
If I had

The flashing of the lights
It might feel so good, but I got you stuck on my mind, yeah
The fashion and the stage, it might get me high
But it don't mean a thing tonight

That would be the only thing I'd ever need
Yeah if I had you, then money fame and fortune never could compete
If I had you, life would be a party it'd be ecstasy
Yeah if I had you
You y-y-y-y do y-y-y-y-y do y-y-y-y-y do
If I had you

That would be the only thing I'd ever need
Yeah if I had you, then money, fame and fortune never could compete (never could compete with you)
If I had you, life would be a party it'd be ecstasy (it'd be ecstasy with you)
Yeah if I had you
You y-y-y-y do y-y-y-y-y do y-y-y-y-y do
If I had you

My first impression of this from the snippets was quite a way off as I'm liking the full version much more. The jazzy opening piano chords remind me of Ben Folds Five until we hear the unmistakable voice and its grainy tone. I love the fun energy the song embodies and how it bounces along with its quirky lyrics. It's like the wind flowing through your hair leaving you feeling carefree. Again I much prefer the verses to the chorus where I'm not so keen on the wheezy droney sound of the guitars. For me, it's the bridge that really makes this song. The dramatic build-up to the grand climax makes it sound like a song right out of a musical. Adam showboats on final note, which recalls many of Axl Rose's final notes in songs such as 'Don't Cry' and 'Sweet Child O' Mine', except that he chuckles afterwards just to remind us he's having fun with it.

Jumpin' out the window
Movin' on, groovin' on
Which way will the wind blow?
We can't be wrong, so say 'so long'
I'mma pick you up, I'mma pick you up
Whatcha tryin' to say to me?
Catch the train at two, whatcha tryin' to do
Are you gonna play with me?

All my life, I've been waiting
Passed my time, procrastinating
Now, it's a trip, I'm a flip
And flash right through the scene
Can't you see what I mean?

Breaking through the boundaries
Rollin' on, strollin' on
They won't ever find me
And after all, we'll have a ball
I'mma pick you up, I'mma pick u up
We're gonna see where we can go
This is how I live, this is what I give
And you're the one I want to know

All my life, I've been waiting
Passed my time, procrastinating
Now, it's a trip, I'm a flip
And flash right through the sea
Can't you see what I mean?

Tiny minded two-toned suckers
Same old faces make me shudder
Countless times I've screamed 'oh brother!'
Where are you? I need someone to be my lover

All my life, I've been waiting
Passed my time, procrastinating
Now, it's a trip, I'm a flip
And flash right through the scene
Can't you see what I mean?

Yeah, it's a trip, I'm a flip
And flash right through the scene
Can't you see what I mean?

I've really been enjoying the synthy disco sound of this song. It's got a choppy and slightly menacing bass with catchy beats & synths that remind me of early '90s rave. The feel of the song is fun, youthful and sexy, and the chorus highly remiscent of the Scissor Sisters. I think it's a dance-floor filler that will have people posing and acting out the lyrics. This is an awesome breathy vocal performance that's very camp and playful. My favourite part is the climax that's sung with a rock edge, which is enough to get us all quivering and stuttering with f-f-fever.

“The song was a demo of hers from three or four years ago. At the end of the session, we had a drink - and then recorded more after some whiskey. The song captures us partying.” - RS 26/11/09

“Yeah, I really wanted to work with her; she's just one of my favorites right now. She had an old demo — I think she said she got signed with that demo to her first label deal — and then she never produced it and got it done. I think that it's a really catchy melody; the lyrics are really fun and silly. Overall, I really enjoyed the process of recording with her. She was on the other side of that glass, just egging me on. She was constantly like, 'Go crazier! Go higher! Go louder!'” - WSJ 12/11/09

“We just talked about the direction of which way it would go, and she said, 'I really want to make more current than the demo is, and dance it up, make it a little more disco-y,' and I was like, 'Yeah, let's do it.' I think we accomplished it.” - RS 11/11/09

There he goes
My baby walks so slow
Sexual tic-tac-toe
Yeah, I know we both know
It isn't time, no
But could you be m-mine?

We'll never get too far
Just you 'n' me and the bar
Silly ménage à trois, sometimes
Would you be m-mine?
Would you be m-mine?
Would you be m-mine?

Oh baby, light's on
But you're mom's not home
I’m sick of laying down alone, hey
With this fever fever, yeah
My one and on(ly)
I wanna get you alone
Give you a fever, fever, yeah

There it goes
You stole my so and so
’Cause, sweetheart
No-no-nobody a-know-know-knows me
Or can find mmm ooh
Time to be m-mine, mine

Let's get inside your car
Just you 'n' me and the stars
Kinda ménage étoiles, sometimes
Would you be m-mine?
Would you be m-mine?
Would you be m-mine?

Oh baby, light's on
But you're mom's not home
I’m sick of laying down alone, hey
With this fever, fever, yeah
My one and on(ly)
I wanna get you alone
Give you a fever, fever, yeah

The start of this song is a lot like Moby's 'Porcelain' before turning into the sound of an enormous echoey '80s ballad. I think the falsetto is a little weak compared to the instrumentals. I love the harmonies during the verses, which seem to hit a resonant spot in me, and my favourite line has to be 'feel so lost and lonely'. At times there a few too many layers of voices chanting which buries the character of Adam's, and perhaps it's the quality of the stream, but there are a few places that sound overly processed, especially during the bridge. The guitar solo is a great addition to a very well-written song with a gorgeous melody. I can imagine the music video would be very cinematic - blue and done in slow-mo. The song is strongly atmospheric and the lyrics are beautifully rousing.

I saw a picture of you
Hanging in an empty hallway
I heard a voice that I knew
And I couldn't walk away
It took me back to the end
Of everything
I tasted all, I tasted all
The tears again

Outside the rain's fallin' down
There's not a drop that hits me
Scream at the sky but no sound
Is leavin' my lips
It's like I can't even feel
After the way you've touched me
I'm not asleep but I'm not awake
After the way you loved me

I can't turn this around
I keep running into walls that I can't break down
I said I just wander around
With my eyes wide shut because of you
I'm a sleepwalker walker walker
I'm a sleepwalker walker walker

Let me out of this dream

Everywhere that I go
I see another memory
And all the places we used to know
They're always there to haunt me
I walk around and I feel so lost and lonely
You're everything that I want
But you don't want me

I can't turn this around
I keep running into walls that I can't break down
I said I just wander around
With my eyes wide shut because of you
I'm a sleepwalker walker walker
I'm a sleepwalker walker walker

Let me out of this dream, dream
Let me out of this dream

I can't turn this around
I keep running into walls that I can't break down
I said I just wander around
With my eyes wide shut because of you
I'm a sleepwalker walker walker
I'm a sleepwalker walker walker
I'm a sleepwalker walker walker
I'm a sleepwalker walker walker

I wasn't too keen on this when I first heard the snippet and I'm still not fully sold on it yet. I would say it's a little indistinctive and would place it in a similar category to TFM, which I don't think really belongs on the album. I think it's because I don't see it as distinctively Adam, or perhaps only as Adam being very PC and on his best behaviour so therefore safe and comparatively boring. Having said that, I do like the surprising sound of his lower register during the verses but the 'In the aftermath' harmonies sound a bit too shrill. I also like the sound of when Adam's voice is fully unleashed at the end and it's a shame we only hear it after the song has already started to fade. The line about the glitter is my favourite part of the lyrics, which are otherwise a little clichéd. Still, it comes with a pleasant and uplifting message from Adam, the role model for weird kids.

“... is probably the most Idol-esque type song on the album. The cool thing is that the lyrics are basically about dealing with your demons. I think there's a universal message in it. It might be about coming out, it might be about self-acceptance, taking the chance of keeping it real and doing what you feel in your heart you have to do, even though it's scary, even though people might not like it. It might be about going to AA. Any sort of traumatic life moment, and in the aftermath of it, of making that decision and dealing with whatever it is you're dealing with, you'll find solace in it. It's another kind of empowerment-type anthem.” - RS 11/11/09

Have you lost your way?
Livin' in the shadow of the messes that you made
And so it goes
Everything inside your circle starts to overflow
Take a step before you leap
Into the colours that you seek
You get back what you give away
So don't look back on yesterday

Wanna scream out
No more hiding
Don't be afraid of what's inside
Gonna tell ya you'll be alright
In the Aftermath
Anytime anybody pulls you down
Anytime anybody says you're not allowed
Just remember you are not alone
In the Aftermath

You feel the weight
Of lies and contradictions that you live with every day
It's not too late
Think of what could be if you rewrite the role you play
Take a step before you leap
Into the colours that you seek
You get back what you give away
So don't look back on yesterday

Wanna scream out
No more hiding
Don't be afraid of what's inside
Gonna tell ya you'll be alright
In the Aftermath
Anytime anybody pulls you down
Anytime anybody says you're not allowed
Just remember you are not alone
In the Aftermath
In the Aftermath

Before you break you have to shed your armour
Take a trip and fall into the glitter
Tell a stranger that they're beautiful
So all you feel is love, love
All you feel is love, love

Wanna scream out
No more hiding
Don't be afraid of what's inside
Wanna tell you you'll be alright
In the Aftermath

Wanna scream out
No more hiding
Don't be afraid of what's inside
Gonna tell ya you'll be alright
In the Aftermath

Anytime anybody pulls you down
Anytime anybody says you're not allowed
Just remember you are not alone
In the Aftermath
In the Aftermath
Gonna tell ya you'll be alright
In the Aftermath
In the Aftermath
Just remember you are not alone
In the Aftermath

I love the sparse arrangement of this stirring song with some of the electronic effects sounding like they're being played backwards, like something is fracturing. The vibe is a little bit like the start of Madonna's 'Frozen' and the floaty ethereal echoey quality makes me think of Enya. It's perfect for listening to if you're feeling melancholy. The achingly beautiful lyrics are expressed with tender, intimate and comforting vocals that wrap you up and make you feel supported. I love the very specific and original message of the song that I think is successfully delivered. I was taken aback by how much it moved me. It's an emotional song that can get past your defences and penetrate the thickest of armour to touch the most hardened of hearts, and with Adam's help, break you open.

“Broken Open is a recurring theme in my life. I've known people who were cool socially, but when we got close, they'd fall apart. I'd think, am I a therapist? I guess I was offering some safety. The song says it's OK, break apart, be a wreck, I'll hold the pieces together.” - USA Today 18/11/09

“...you could put it in the same category as a downtempo Goldfrapp song or even like Radiohead, there's shades of that in there, very electronic but mellow, very ethereal. The lyrics are basically encouraging someone to feel safe in being vulnerable. 'Lay here, it's safe here, I'll let you be broken open.' It's about that moment where someone really opens up emotionally to you. I just wrote that from some experiences that I've had with certain people in my life, and I hope that it comes across that way.” - RS 11/11/09

I don't want you to go
Don't wanna see you back out in the cold
Air you're breathing out fades you to grey
Don't run away, find me

I know the battles of chasing the shadows of who you wanna be
It doesn't matter, go on and shatter
I'm all you need
Broken pieces, break into me
So imperfectly what you should be
Lay here, it's safe here, I'll let you be broken open
Hide here, confide here so we can be broken open

Let's enlighten the night
We can fall away, slip out of sight
When you drop your guard
Melt into time, so intertwined, quiet

I know the battles of chasing the shadows of who you wanna be
It doesn't matter, go on and shatter
I'm all you need
Broken pieces, break into me
So imperfectly what you should be
Lay here, it's safe here, I'll let you be broken open
Hide here, confide here so we can be broken open

Broken pieces, break into me
So imperfectly what you should be
Lay here, it's safe here, I'll let you be broken open
Hide here, confide here so we can be broken open

Lay here, it's safe here, I'll let you be broken open
Hide here, confide here so we can be broken open

“Alain and Natasha’s demo for it was this beautiful melody, just a beautiful acoustic kind of rock feel and then with (producer) Rob Cavallo, we made it like an epic kind of rock power ballad that I’m very proud of...
...What’s great about 'Time…' is that it has a kind of classic rock power ballad feel. It appeals to all ages. It goes full on like Zeppelin or Queen rock toward the end but starts out with a beautiful melody. It does what some of those great classic rock ballads do. I’m really happy with it.” - Inquirer 07/11/09

It's late at night and I can't sleep
Missing you just runs too deep
Oh I can't breathe thinking of your smile
Every kiss I can't forget
This aching heart ain't broken yet
Oh God I wish I could make you see

'Cause I know this flame isn't dying
So nothing can stop me from trying

Baby you know that
Maybe it's time for miracles
'Cause I ain't giving up on love
You know that
Maybe it's time for miracles
'Cause I ain't giving up on love
No i ain't giving up on us

I just wanna be with you
'Cause living is so hard to do
When all I know is trapped inside your eyes
The future I can not forget
This aching heart ain't broken yet
Oh God I wish I could make you see

'Cause I know this flame isn't dying
So nothing can stop me from trying

Baby you know that
Maybe it's time for miracles
'Cause I ain't giving up on love
You know that
Maybe it's time for miracles
'Cause I aint giving up on love
No I ain't giving up on us

Baby can you feel it coming
You know I can hear it
Hear the song
Baby when you feel
Me feeling you
You know it's time

Baby you know that
Lately it's time for some miracles
'Cause I ain't giving up on love
You know that
Maybe it's time for miracles
'Cause I ain't, I ain't giving up on love
You know that
Maybe it's time for a miracle yeah
'Cause I ain't, I ain't giving up on love
No I ain't giving up on love
I ain't giving up no
Oh I ain't giving up on us

Saturday, 14 November 2009

The goodies keep coming! They're playing havoc with my sleeping patterns but they keep getting better. Here are the songs. They are the full songs but I've added some interruptions of silence to encourage buying and discourage ripping.

MASTER PLAN (Ryan Tedder)You run away from everything that you fear
So afraid, don't wanna be a part of it
You see the fake in everything that is real
You hate the paradox, you put us in a box

We don't define what makes us right or wrong
Waste of time, no we're just living it
I wanna seize you, touch you one on one
Don't stop until we're done, we've only just begun

We are the face of a new generation
We are the ones who have no reservation
Don't give a damn 'bout your cold calculation
Welcome to the master plan
Don't care if you understand
Don't care if you understand
Welcome to the master plan

Your skin is burnin' at the sight of me
Your mask can't hide what you're thinking
Don't ask, don't tell, just take what you need
I'm an open book, so go on and take a look

We are the face of a new generation
We are the ones who have no reservation
Don't give a damn 'bout your cold calculation
Welcome to the master plan
Don't care if you understand
Don't care if you understand
Welcome to the master plan

There's you, there's me, I feel your energy
I hope you'll see
Things ain't what they used to be
Look at the face
Look at the face

We are the face of a new generation
We are the ones who have no reservation
Don't give a damn 'bout your cold calculation
Welcome to the master plan
Don't care if you understand
Don't care if you understand
Welcome to the master plan
Don't care if you under
Welcome to the master plan
Don't care if you understand

WHATAYA WANT FROM ME?Hey, slow it down
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
Yeah, I'm afraid
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
There might have been a time
When I would give myself away
Oh once upon a time
I didn't give a damn
But now, here we are
So whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?

Just don't give up, I'm working it out
Please don't give in, I won't let you down
It messed me up, need a second to breathe
Just keep coming around, hey
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?

There, it's plain to see
That baby you're beautiful
And there's nothing wrong with you
It's me, I'm a freak
But thanks for loving me,
'cause you're doing it perfectly
And there might have been a time
When I would have let you slip away
I wouldn't even try
But I think you could save my life

Just don't give up, I'm working it out
Please don't give in, I won't let you down
It messed me up, need a second to breathe
Just keep coming around, hey
Whataya want from me? Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me? Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?

Just don't give up on me
I won't let you down
No, I won't ya let ya down
So wait

Just don't give up, I'm working it out
Please don't give in, I won't let you down
It messed me up, need a second to breathe
Just keep coming around, hey
Whataya want from me?

Just don't give up, I'm working it out
Please don't give in, I won't let you down
It messed me up, need a second to breathe
Just keep coming around, hey
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?

Thursday, 12 November 2009

Hope you like the new look of this site, I figured a make-over was long overdue and it needed to be glitterier to do justice to Adam.

This wait for the album and all the leaks is like a very long tease. Here are the extended previews of some of the songs from For Your Entertainment with thanks to Hooplamagnet:

First impressions are that they all sound much, much better than their 30-second predecessors, including the ones I wasn't initially so keen on. More thoughts to follow after a sleep and more listens.

EDIT: It's a source of amusement how ridiculous it was to write reviews of 30 second song fragments of Adam's songs, but it wasn't just the preserve of us fans, oh no, the mainstream media also caught onto this insanity! I wonder how much more we're going to get drip-fed until we hear the whole thing, and whether each drip will generate another review. I now know that the 30 second previews didn't represent the songs very well as my opinions of them have changed after hearing these latest mashed-up fragments. I'll be brief because I'll no doubt be re-writing the review when I hear the whole songs. I've included what I can make of the lyrics and have left out some of the repetition but please feel free to correct them.

MUSIC AGAIN
“It has a classic rock riff to it that I thought was so sexy. Another band that was a major reference was Queen. You hear that influence in a couple different songs, and the chorus of that song, I wanted the harmonies to sound like Queen, I wanted it to be really full. Also, bands like Sweet used to do that with their vocals, glam bands. I just wanted to show people I had a sense of humor with this shit. It's fun, it's supposed to be kind of campy.” - RS interview

The extended preview isn't quite as choppy or crazy sounding as the 30 second one led me to believe as the OTT vocals don't continue throughout the song. It feels more retro than I'd imagined and the guitar reminds me of Free's Alright Now. Still, I love the harmonies and it's fabulously ridiculous and fun.

Living for other people
Took meeting you to realise
I don't wanna lose ya, I wanna keep ya

Put your little hand in mine and
Look into my eyes very eyes
Oh you make me wanna listen to music again
Yeah you make me wanna listen to music again

There had been many moons before I met ya
And I ain't going nowhere
And now you give me back my raison d'être
And I'm inspired again

And I know in some ways I'm kinda evil
Got my roots in you, got ties
And my heart's no stranger to upheaval

Put your little hand in mine and
Look into my eyes very eyes
Oh you make me wanna listen to music again
Yeah you make me wanna listen to music again

Ahhh music again
Look in to my eyes very eyes
I just wanna listen to music again
Oh yeah oh yeah oh wooh!

WHATAYA WANT FROM ME?
This was one of the ones I was less keen on to begin with. Apart from Adam's voice, I thought it was fairly generic soft-rock but there are a few things that have improved my opinion of it. Firstly, I like the inclusion of the electro synths in the break which makes the production less bland. I often listen to music without much in the way of lyrics but because of Adam's enunciation of the words, I'm made to take notice. The chorus lyrics were uninspiring but the verses are better.

Just don't give up, I'm working it out
Please don't give in, I won't let you down
It messed me up, need a second to breathe
Just keep coming around, hey
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?

There, it's plain to see
That baby you're beautiful
And there's nothing wrong with you
It's me, I'm a freak
But thanks for loving me,
'cause you're doing it perfectly
And there might have been a time when I would have let you slip away
I wouldn't even try but I think you could save my life

Just don't give up, I'm working it out
Please don't give in, I won't let you down
It messed me up, need a second to breathe
Just keep coming around, hey
Whataya want from me? Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me? Whataya want from me?
Whataya want from me?

Just don't give up on me
I won't let you down

IF I HAD YOU
This feels very different now to when it initially leaked. It's less of a club tune as we get to hear much more rock. Adam's voice in its more natural state singing personal lyrics makes it much more enjoyable. I'll be interested to hear how this whole song binds together the dance and the rock as I don't think it's done smoothly in the clip.

But if I had you, that would be the only thing I'd ever need
Yeah if I had you, then money fame and fortune never could compete
If I had you, life would be a party it'd be ecstasy
Yeah if I had you
You y-y-y-y do y-y-y-y-y do y-y-y-y-y do
If I had you

So I got my boots on, got the right amount of leather
And I'm doing me up with a black colour liner
And I'm working my strut but I know it don't matter
All we need in this world is some love
There's a thin line between the dark side and the light side baby tonight
It's a struggle gonna rumble tryin' to find it

But if I had you, that would be the only thing I'd ever need
Yeah if I had you, then money fame and fortune never could compete
If I had you, life would be a party it'd be ecstasy
Yeah if I had you
You y-y-y-y do y-y-y-y-y do y-y-y-y-y do
If I had

The flashing of the lights
It might feel so good but I got you stuck on my mind, yeah
The flashing and the stage it might get me high right
But it don't mean a thing tonight

PICK U UP
I was a little 'meh' when it came to Pick U Up on the first listen, not being too keen on the drawl of the chorus. Now I like the melody of the verses and how it builds up to the crescendo. It feels dramatic and theatrical, providing a little adrenaline shot and breathing much more life into the song.

All my life, I've been waiting
Pass my time, procrastinating now
It's a trip on a fume
And flash right through the sea
Can't you see what I mean?

Breaking through the boundaries
Rolling on, strolling on
They won't ever find me
After all, we'll have a ball
I'mma pick you up, I'mma pick u up
We're gonna see where we can go
This is how I live, this is what I give
And you're the one I want to know

All my life, I've been waiting
Pass my time, procrastinating now
It's a trip on a fume
And flash right through the sea
Can't you see what I mean?

Tiny minded two-tone suckers
Same old faces make me shudder
Countless times I've screamed 'oh brother!'
Where are you? I need someone to be my lover

SLEEPWALKER
This is just beautiful. The chanting gives it a super-powerful epic feel and the guitar solo gives it more of a rock edge than my initial impression. The lyrics, the melody and production all come together for an awe-inspiring result.

I can't turn this around
I keep running into walls that I can't break down
I said I just wander around
With my eyes wide shut because of you
I'm a sleepwalker walker walker
I'm a sleepwalker walker walker

Let me out of this dream
Everywhere that I go
I see another memory
And all the places we used to know
They're always there to haunt me
I walk around and I feel so lost and lonely
You're everything that I want
But you don't want me

I can't turn this around
I keep running into walls that I can't break down
I said I just wander around
With my eyes wide shut because of you
I'm a sleepwalker walker walker
I'm a sleepwalker walker walker